Make this oft-ignored space work harder and look prettier.

These hands-on homeowners added luxe-looking board and batten to their empty hallway for just $57. Clean, white picture frames mimic the angular style to bring extra polish to the space.
See more at Young House Love »

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Decor Adventures

Bust Out a Pattern

A hallway can handle a fun, all-over stencil. Unlike, say, the living room, you don't spend much time in the hall, so the look won't overwhelm you.
See more at Decor Adventures »

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Shanty 2 Chic

Add Form and Function

This blogger shows off her family's smiling faces in a pleasing symmetrical way. Coat hooks match the black frames to offer mudroom functionality without sacrificing style.
See more at Shanty 2 Chic »

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Capturing Joy

Expand the Play Area

Your hallway might include the widest wall in your home, which makes it the perfect spot to channel your kids' endless creativity. Spread chalkboard paint on the bottom half, display masterpieces above, and take the family room for less messy pursuits.
See more at Capturing Joy »

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Little House of Four

Sneak in a Surprise

Gallery walls are nothing new, but positioning one at the end of a long hall is unexpected and delights passersby as they walk through the house.
See more at Little House of Four »

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The Chronicles of Home

Layer Prints

A runner adds a welcome cozy texture to bare floors, and can work even if you have busy tilework. Since the floor is only in your peripheral vision, the mix-and-match look will be an accent, not a focal point.
See more at The Chronicles of Home »

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Thistlewood Farms

Find Room for Work

Without a dedicated office space, this blogger turned a shipping pallet into a flip-out desk that leaves the hallway open and tidy when it's not in use.
See more at Thistlewood Farms »

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The 36th Avenue

Line Up Shelves

If you've got quite the personal library, the hallway is a great spot for spillover. Built-in shelves are a nice luxury, but regular bookcases are slim enough to position in the hall, too.
See more at The 36th Avenue »

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Lemonade Makin' Mama

Try Skinny Storage

Thin cabinets are another fab furniture option. This one is meant for shoes, but can also corral scarves, gloves, and other items that never seem to have a dedicated home.
See more at Lemonade Makin' Mama »

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Oh Everything Handmade

Offer Softness

Bring warmth to a stark hallway by parking a cushy, inviting bench there. It's a well-designed spot for lacing up shoes and can even stealthily hide extra storage.
See more at Oh Everything Handmade »

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